Engineering the Future of the Phoenix Skyline: How Castellated Steel is Reshaping Commercial Builds
How do you compress building depths, slash lead times, and drive major structural savings across large-scale commercial developments?
In our first site-check at the Rediscover Phoenix Project, Brandon Bell, Founder & CEO of Next Level Steel, breaks down how modern structural engineering is transforming project execution across the Valley.
When ViaWest Group and Willmeng Construction, Inc. needed a highly efficient framing strategy for their latest project, they partnered with Next Level Steel. The solution? Deploying innovative, highly cost-effective castellated steel structures to streamline the build from the ground up.
Why Castellated Steel Is Transforming Commercial Builds
Using expanded castellated beams is doing more than just supporting roofs—it is fundamentally changing how commercial buildings are designed and constructed in Arizona. Here is why this method is driving so much value:
● Reduced Building Profile: Compressing the structural framing depth lowers the overall exterior wall height. This drives compounding, systemic savings across the entire project, requiring fewer concrete tilt panels, less rebar, and a reduced foundation footprint.
● Eliminated Submittal Bottlenecks: Because castellated beams feature standardized AISC section properties, the Structural Engineer of Record (SEOR) can model the structure upfront. This allows project managers to bypass deferred joist submittals and avoid costly municipal approval delays.
● Systemic Cost Savings: A reduced total building height decreases lateral wind forces and foundation loads, ultimately creating a leaner, far more efficient building envelope.
This collaboration between Next Level Steel, ViaWest Group, and Willmeng Construction serves as a premier blueprint for modern commercial construction in Greater Phoenix—proving that smarter engineering leads to faster, more cost-effective builds.
See exactly how these structural advantages come together on the job site.